Impact of Agricultural Expansion on Andosols in the Mountains of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt
摘要
Andosols are widespread soils found in young volcanic areas with humid climates, such as central Mexico. These soils develop from volcanic ashes. They possess excellent qualities for plant growth and agriculture, as they are highly fertile, porous, and easy for roots to penetrate. Under natural conditions, they resist erosion and allow significant water infiltration. However, when overexploited or exposed to frequent fires, their aggregates lose stability, their permeability is reduced, and they become highly susceptible to accelerated erosion. The ongoing expansion of avocado orchards over forest areas in central Mexico is threatening andosols.